What is a Mesh-system?

Mesh-system is a Wi-Fi network utilizing Mesh technology, offering an effective solution to eliminate indoor "dead zones." Instead of relying on a single router, these systems incorporate multiple nodes, called access points, collaborating to cover the entire area and ensure a seamless and uninterrupted Wi-Fi connection. Mesh points can be strategically placed, even in the remotest corners of a house or apartment, ensuring a stable signal in previously problematic "dead zones" where signals were weak or nonexistent.

In business, a seamless network can also be very useful. For example, if necessary, additional access points can be added to already installed nodes, expanding the coverage area. Additionally, seamless systems provide advanced tools to improve security, such as automatically authenticating guests, detecting network breaches, or filtering certain content.

Operating principles of Mesh-systems

Problems with the distribution of Wi-Fi signal from one router in a multi-story building.

In contrast to traditional routers, these systems employ multiple nodes (typically 2 or 3) that communicate on an equal footing, without a distinct main router and repeaters. Through continuous data exchange between nodes, the control system effortlessly transitions between them, guaranteeing uninterrupted and seamless coverage. This transition is so seamless that there is no interruption in the signal, even during bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming high-quality video or engaging in video calls.

Mesh systems employ a self-configuring and self-optimizing protocol for efficient communication. This protocol automatically adjusts access point parameters and directs data flow along the most efficient path. Even if one access point fails, the network continues seamlessly by rerouting traffic through other access points. This ensures uninterrupted functionality, allowing users to move freely without concerns about blind spots or slowdowns in their home or business.

MESH systems

What is the difference from a regular Wi-Fi booster or repeater?

At this point, many users may wonder how all this differs from a regular router with repeaters connected to it? Despite the similarity of principles, mesh routers work more subtly. Each Mesh module acts as an independent router, while Wi-Fi signal boosters only duplicate the signal of the main router. And if the user leaves the range of the repeater and connects to another, then he needs to reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.

The mesh system employs roaming protocols such as Self-Healing and adaptive routing. Self-Healing aids in selecting the best access point for maximum speed. Consequently, users won't notice any disruptions when moving out of one router's coverage area, as the system seamlessly transitions them to a more suitable node within the same Wi-Fi network.

Benefits of seamless Mesh networks

3 nodal points provide high-quality coverage for a large country house.

Despite the convenience of seamless networks, they also have their disadvantages. But first, let's talk about the advantages.

  • Many manufacturers market seamless networks as a hassle-free solution for large homes, promoting them as a "buy and forget" option. To simplify setup, many now offer mobile apps with user-friendly instructions, allowing users to scatter and connect all points throughout the house in just 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Unlike repeaters, a seamless network acts as a single organism — it has a common name for the entire network and one password for access.
  • When installing an access point in a child's room, parents can configure separate access parameters and content filtering for it.
  • Many manufacturers like TP-Link, Huawei and Asus have begun adding mesh protocol support to their new or recently released home routers. And if you suddenly want to create a mesh network, then an old router supporting this technology can be used as the first node, adding new access points as necessary.

And now about the disadvantages: